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Basic Technical Commonly tested

Spoil Pile Recontouring

noun

Pronunciation: /spɔɪl paɪl ˌriːkənˈtʊərɪŋ/

The reshaping and grading of waste rock accumulated during mining operations to reduce erosion potential and facilitate vegetation establishment. Recontouring involves resloping spoil material to natural contours that promote surface stability and aesthetic integration.

Plain English

Reshaping piles of waste rock from mining to create stable slopes that prevent erosion and allow plants to grow.

Etymology & History

Origin languageEnglish
Rootspoil (from Old French spolier) + pile (from Latin pila) + recontour (from contour)
First recorded use1990s
Usage frequencyCommon

Usage

"Spoil Pile Recontouring reduced slope angles from 45 degrees to 30 degrees, improving drainage and vegetation survival rates."

Style guide notes: Always specify final slope ratios and material types when discussing recontouring specifications.

Also known as

slope regrading waste rock reshaping spoil resloping

Contrasted with

spoil pile abandonment unmanaged waste stacking

Related Terms

Frequently Asked Questions

What slope angle is optimal for recontouring stability?

Slopes typically range 2:1 to 3:1 (horizontal:vertical) depending on material composition and climate zone.

How does recontouring affect reclamation success?

Proper recontouring reduces erosion by 60-80%, improves water infiltration, and increases vegetation establishment success.

Why Test Candidates on This?

Spoil pile recontouring design directly impacts long-term site stability and reclamation success metrics.

Required skill level: Mid

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